Understanding Cold and Flu Season

Posted March 27, 2018.

Did you know that your teeth may be extra susceptible to dental damage during cold and flu season? The reason is that you tend to neglect your health care at this time and your teeth are at an increased risk of dental damage due to several different causes. However, even if you have a decreased energy level and find yourself routinely sick, you can still make sure that your teeth remain safe throughout your illness.

The most important thing you can do when you are sick is to continue cleaning your mouth. If for any reason you start neglecting this key element of your oral health care, you will automatically put your teeth at an increased risk of damage. So, you need to continue to brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis. However, you will need to make sure that you are not brushing immediately after you have a bout of nausea sick or after a meal times, since acids will be present on your teeth and brushing before waiting 30 minutes can damage your teeth. If you do find yourself vomiting, the acids that travel up into your mouth can lead to an increased risk of dental erosion. To help clean out your mouth after being sick, rinse your mouth with a salt-water mixture or mouthwash.

If you are using any sort of cough drops, never bite into them, or you could end up chipping and cracking your teeth. For further help taking care of your smile, make sure you avoid sugary cough drops, cough syrups or putting honey in you tea; and stay hydrated at all times.

Do you still have questions about your oral health during cold and flu season? Karl Schneck and our team at our dental office in Medford, Oregon are always here to help you take the steps to building a healthier you. You are welcome to call our office at 541-779-4344 to book an appointment with us to discuss your options for keeping your smile safe if you are sick.